Sgt. Frank Joseph Gasper of Merced was killed on Sunday in Iraq. Gasper, 25, was an Army Special Operations soldier who was killed near Diwaniyah, Iraq by an improvised explosive device.
Gasper had many friends and family still in Merced. His widow lives in Colorado and talked to KSEE 24 News on the phone.
Below is the official Defense Department news release on Gasper's death:
PRESS RELEASE: Army Special Operations Soldier killed in Iraq
U.S. Army Special Operations Command Public Affairs Office
FORT BRAGG, N.C. (USASOC News Service, May 26, 2008) — An Army Special Operations Soldier was killed May 25, as a result of an improvised explosive device, while conducting resupply operations near Diwaniyah, Iraq.
Sgt. Frank Joseph Gasper, 25, was fatally wounded when his vehicle struck an IED. He was a Radio Operator assigned to the Headquarters Support Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Carson, Colo.
Gasper, a native of Merced, Calif., enlisted in the Army in October 2002. After completion of his basic and advanced individual training, he was assigned to 10th SFG(A) April 2003.
Gasper is survived by his wife, Breanna of Colorado Springs. He is also survived by his mother, Anita Richards, and his sister, Victoria Gasper of Calif.
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger Tuesday, released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Frank J. Gasper of Merced, CA:
“Sergeant Frank Gasper’s bravery is a shining example of the courage and determination that makes our nation strong. His dedication to preserving our nation’s freedom serves as inspiration to all Californians and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. Maria and I extend our prayers to Frank’s family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss.”
In honor of Sgt. Gasper, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
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http://www.ksee24.com/news/local/19296454.html